Show summary Hide summary
More than 4,500 fish were found dead along a two-kilometre stretch of the Cavan Town River, prompting a formal investigation by fisheries authorities. The discovery has sparked concern for local freshwater habitats and those who use the river for angling and wildlife watching.
Authorities coordinate a cross-agency probe
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) said its officers located the dead fish after a confidential hotline report arrived late on Tuesday night. IFI has opened an investigation under the national protocol for significant fish kills and is leading the response.
Six floral and garden festivals to include in your holiday itinerary
Marriott opens Aloft hotel in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter
The probe involves several bodies working together, including Cavan County Council, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Marine Institute and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. An interagency group met on Wednesday to organise fieldwork and examine possible causes.
Species and scale of the kill
Survey teams recorded a mix of species among the casualties. Those listed by officials include:
- brown trout
- European eel
- roach
- lamprey
- minnow
- freshwater crayfish
Cause still undetermined
Authorities have not yet identified what triggered the die-off. Investigations are under way to establish the origin and scale of the ecological incident.
IFI and its partners will assess water quality, habitat conditions and any potential pollution sources as part of the national protocol process. Results and conclusions have not been released.
How the public can help
Anyone with information about the incident, or who has knowledge of water pollution, habitat damage or illegal fishing in the area, is asked to contact IFI’s confidential 24-hour line on 0818 34 74 24. Authorities said reports from the public can assist the ongoing inquiry.
